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The secret to a foolproof French manicure every time

What's the secret to frustration-free nail art? This French manicure trick!
/ Source: TODAY

Who knew that a simple rubber band would be the secret to frustration-free nail art?

Nailing a tricky French manicure by yourself and gaining more control when polishing with your non-dominant hand has never been easier. Go classic, monochromatic — like fuchsia with pink petal tips — or experimental with negative space manicures in the comfort of your own home!

(And if you're still struggling to remove a ring that's stuck, we've got you covered.)

Step 1:

Polish nails with a base coat and let dry.

Step 2:

Tie the rubber band into a knot in the middle so that there are two loops.

How to paint nails by yourself
Anna De Souza / TODAY

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Step 3:

Slip one loop over nail you're polishing and slide the other onto the thumb to anchor it in place. The band is pliable so adjust it into a slight half-moon shape that follows the contour of your nail.

Step 4:

With white polish (or the color of your choice), paint the tip of the nail in small strokes outward from the rubber band.

How to paint nails by yourself
Anna De Souza / TODAY

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Step 5:

Remove the rubber band carefully before the polish dries. You risk smudging the edge if you leave the rubber band on for too long.

Step 6:

Top it with a with a generous layer of topcoat to blur any small imperfections on the surface. And you're set!